I got the chance to ask Rich Edson, Washington correspondent for the Fox Business Network, a few questions about this year's race, the key business issues and what will be the key factors when Alabamians head to the polls today.

BBJ:How do the candidates differ on business issues in general?

Edson: Broadly, the leading Republican candidates offer fairly similar plans: Lower taxes, cuts to federal spending and reduced regulations. In many cases, their plans are light on specifics. While they do provide some numbers, these candidates are also trying to sell a theme to capture voters.

Mitt Romney is campaigning on his business background, arguing he is capable of running the American economy, in part, because of it.

Sen. Rick Santorum has proposed eliminating corporate taxes for manufacturers. His supporters hope that plays well among factory workers and their families.

BBJ:How will their economic plans affect Alabama?

Edson: There remains a strong push among the Republican candidates, especially with gas prices approaching $4 a gallon, to fast-track oil drilling permits in the Gulf of Mexico. Santorum’s promotion of manufacturing in the tax code could help draw more factory jobs to the U.S.

The Republican candidates mostly promise lower taxes for businesses, or an overhaul of the corporate tax code (there’s wide agreement in Washington that the current code needs fixing.)

They also publicly support less federal spending. Industries in the state that are dependent on funding from Washington may see profits at risk. Typically, Republicans exempt military funding from budget cuts, with the exception of Rep. Ron Paul.

Newt Gingrich stands out among the Republican challengers with his strong support for the U.S. space program.

Keep in mind: Whether cuts or additional spending, these candidates still must get the bulk of their economic plans through Congress.

BBJ: Any big talking points our readers should know about?

Edson: Campaigns brand issues to win voters’ attention. Whoever is president in 2013 will have to address another debt ceiling increase, unsustainable budget deficits and possibly entitlement reform. Unless one party sweeps the 2012 elections, the president will have to negotiate with the other party to get any of that done.

Edson: Short of federal aid, there’s little any U.S. president can do to save a county from bankruptcy. Other than controlling costs, the best way to get a local budget back in order is a strong economy. Workers making more money means more money sent to the government in taxes.